Ready in a half hour or less, these easy, healthy dinner ideas clock in at fewer than 550 calories per serving.
1/48
Chicken Fajitas
From the Recipe Creator:
This chicken fajitas recipe is definitely on my weeknight dinner rotation. The marinated chicken in these popular wraps is mouthwatering. The fajitas go together in a snap and always get raves! —Julie Sterchi, Campbellsville, Kentucky
Nutrition Facts:
1 fajita: 369 calories, 15g fat (2g saturated fat), 63mg cholesterol, 689mg sodium, 30g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 1g fiber), 28g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 2 starch, 2 fat.
These chicken fajitas will definitely become a staple in your home. You’ll be shocked at how quickly this healthy dinner recipe comes together!
2/48
Spaghetti & Meatball Skillet Supper
From the Recipe Creator:
I developed this one-skillet spaghetti and meatball dish to cut down on cooking time on busy nights. The beans, artichokes and tomatoes bump up the nutrition factor, while the lemon and parsley make it pop with brightness. —Roxanne Chan, Albany, California
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/3 cups: 330 calories, 10g fat (2g saturated fat), 43mg cholesterol, 1051mg sodium, 38g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 6g fiber), 20g protein.
This weeknight dinner has all the works. The beans and artichokes are a great way to sneak in veggies, especially if you have little ones.
3/48
Shrimp with Orzo and Feta
From the Recipe Creator:
Tender, hearty and flavorful, this recipe is one of my favorites! Garlic and a splash of lemon add to the fresh taste and heart-healthy benefits of shrimp. —Sarah Hummel, Moon Township, Pennsylvania
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 406 calories, 12g fat (3g saturated fat), 180mg cholesterol, 307mg sodium, 40g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 9g fiber), 33g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 4 lean meat, 2 starch, 1 fat.
A good orzo recipe sticks with you forever, and this one will easily claim a spot in your heart—but mostly your stomach! The feta cheese really brings this dish together. Check out these heart-healthy suppers that will have both your heart and your taste buds thanking you.
4/48
Balsamic Chicken
From the Recipe Creator:
Our kitchen is tiny, so we try to grill simple (but tasty) meals outside as often as possible during the summer months. Dried herbs work as well, but during the summer use fresh herbs for the best taste. —Kelly Evans, Denton, Texas
Nutrition Facts:
1 chicken thigh with 2 teaspoons sauce: 245 calories, 15g fat (3g saturated fat), 76mg cholesterol, 358mg sodium, 6g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 0 fiber), 21g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 1-1/2 fat.
This healthy dinner recipe is for those with cramped kitchens and a grill outside. The chicken tastes refreshing and is best served with a big salad.
5/48
Shrimp and Corn Salad
From the Recipe Creator:
This recipe showcases the beautiful bounty of summer with its fresh corn, tomatoes and delicious basil. Prevent browning by spritzing the salad with lemon juice. —Deena Bowen, Chico, California
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 371 calories, 22g fat (3g saturated fat), 138mg cholesterol, 450mg sodium, 25g carbohydrate (8g sugars, 5g fiber), 23g protein.
Running out of ways to make shrimp? This healthy dinner recipe is great for a sunny day. Corn, tomatoes and basil shine in this pesto salad.
6/48
Pork and Orzo
From the Recipe Creator:
On a really busy day, this meal in a bowl is one of my top picks. It's quick to put together, leaving a lot more time to relax at the table. —Mary Relyea, Canastota, New York
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/3 cups: 372 calories, 11g fat (4g saturated fat), 71mg cholesterol, 306mg sodium, 34g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 3g fiber), 31g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 2 starch, 1 vegetable, 1 fat.
This quick Mediterranean meal is mostly flavored with tomatoes and feta cheese. You can season the pork to your taste or even substitute the pork for chicken thighs.
7/48
Chicken with Mushroom Sauce
From the Recipe Creator:
It looks impressive, but this mouthwatering chicken and mushroom sauce comes together in no time. I think its flavor rivals that of many full-fat entrees found in fancy restaurants. —Jennifer Pemberton, Muncie, Indiana
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 225 calories, 9g fat (3g saturated fat), 71mg cholesterol, 541mg sodium, 8g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 1g fiber), 26g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 1-1/2 fat, 1 vegetable.
This healthy dinner recipe is on par with what you’d get at a restaurant. It’s simple and accessible to everyone. Don’t be afraid to season the chicken before cooking.
8/48
Firecracker Shrimp
From the Recipe Creator:
Bold in flavor, this firecracker shrimp gets a kick of heat from sriracha and sweet chili sauce and a touch of citrus from lime zest. Serve it with warm rice, or try making stir-fried noodles to go with it. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
about 10 shrimp: 326 calories, 13g fat (1g saturated fat), 207mg cholesterol, 1187mg sodium, 22g carbohydrate (12g sugars, 1g fiber), 28g protein.
This firecracker shrimp recipe packs a punch thanks to a combination of sweet chili sauce, fiery sriracha and tangy lime. It comes together in 30 minutes—less time than it takes to cook rice!
9/48
Pasta Primavera
From the Recipe Creator:
This pasta dish is a wonderful blend of crisp, colorful vegetables and a creamy Parmesan cheese sauce. —Darlene Brenden, Salem, Oregon
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/3 cups: 275 calories, 12g fat (6g saturated fat), 33mg cholesterol, 141mg sodium, 35g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 3g fiber), 10g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 starch, 2 fat, 1 vegetable.
This springtime dish looks beautiful on any dinner table. The parmesan cream sauce pleasantly seasons the vegetables. Adding a protein is optional, but we recommend shrimp or chicken sausage.
10/48
Chicken Thighs and Spinach
From the Recipe Creator:
What could be better than an entree that comes with its own creamy vegetable side? This healthy supper goes together in no time flat and makes an eye-catching presentation. —Genna Johannes, Wrightstown, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
1 chicken thigh with 1/4 cup spinach mixture: 223 calories, 10g fat (3g saturated fat), 77mg cholesterol, 360mg sodium, 7g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 1g fiber), 23g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 1-1/2 fat, 1 vegetable.
If you have a bigger family or just a penchant for leftovers, this speedy dinner is the one for you. The side dish and main course cook together, leaving you more time to go about your day.
11/48
Fresh Corn and Tomato Fettuccine
From the Recipe Creator:
This recipe combines delicious whole wheat pasta with fresh garden produce. It's tossed with heart-healthy olive oil, and a sprinkling of feta cheese gives it bite. —Angela Spengler, Tampa, Florida
Nutrition Facts:
2 cups: 527 calories, 17g fat (5g saturated fat), 84mg cholesterol, 1051mg sodium, 75g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 9g fiber), 21g protein.
This dinner is fresh, light and perfect for days when you have a late lunch. It can be served hot or cold and is great either way.
12/48
Cheeseburger Macaroni
From the Recipe Creator:
Cheeseburger macaroni is the ultimate simple and fulfilling dinner that uses items I typically have in my cupboard. It's so easy to prepare and cooking all in one skillet makes it a snap for clean up. —Juli Meyers, Hinesville, Georgia
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 338 calories, 11g fat (5g saturated fat), 64mg cholesterol, 611mg sodium, 32g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 4g fiber), 27g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 2 starch, 1/2 fat.
Who said cheeseburgers and mac and cheese couldn’t be healthy? This one-skillet dinner is a hit with kids and adults. You probably already have most of the ingredients in your pantry.
13/48
Asian Chicken Rice Bowl
From the Recipe Creator:
This super flavorful, nutrient-packed dish makes use of supermarket conveniences like coleslaw mix and rotisserie chicken. This recipe is easily doubled or tripled for large families. —Christianna Gozzi, Asteria, New York
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 429 calories, 15g fat (2g saturated fat), 62mg cholesterol, 616mg sodium, 38g carbohydrate (13g sugars, 5g fiber), 32g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 2 starch, 1 vegetable, 1 fat.
When you have a knack for something savory but light, try this healthy dinner recipe. Bursting with flavor, this recipe uses rice vinegar, soy sauce and sesame oil for a well-done dressing.
14/48
Seared Scallops
From the Recipe Creator:
You'll want to slip this recipe into the front of your last-minute guests file. Pasta and mixed greens nicely complement the tender, citrusy shellfish. —Margaret E. Lowenberg, Kingman, Arizona
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 249 calories, 11g fat (4g saturated fat), 52mg cholesterol, 618mg sodium, 14g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 1g fiber), 21g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 2 fat, 1 starch.
The breadcrumbs make the scallops crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. They’re simple, addictive and don’t require eggs to coat! Zoodles and mixed greens nicely complement the tender and citrusy scallops.
15/48
Sausage Veggie Skillet
From the Recipe Creator:
I threw this sausage recipe together one night to use up produce before going out of town. Who knew it was going to be such a hit! Now it’s a recipe I turn to whenever time is tight. —Elizabeth Kelley, Chicago, Illinois
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/2 cups: 371 calories, 11g fat (3g saturated fat), 65mg cholesterol, 715mg sodium, 48g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 5g fiber), 22g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 starch, 3 lean meat, 1 fat.
You can’t go wrong with sausage and potatoes. This dish relies on simple but strong flavors like garlic, onion and red pepper flakes.
16/48
Lettuce-Wrap Burgers
From the Recipe Creator:
These fresh flavors blend like a dream. It's a snap to throw the wraps together for a quick, healthy lunch. The burgers can also be served on buns if you like. —Rachelle McCalla, Atlantic, Iowa
Nutrition Facts:
2 wraps: 252 calories, 15g fat (5g saturated fat), 78mg cholesterol, 518mg sodium, 5g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 2g fiber), 24g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 2 fat.
Lettuce wraps are the holy grail for those who like extra crunch in their meals. You can substitute the ground beef for ground turkey for an even healthier spin.
17/48
Lemon Baked Cod
From the Recipe Creator:
After trying a few baked cod recipes, this was the first fish recipe that got two thumbs up from my picky meat-only eaters. The tangy lemon gives the cod fish some oomph. —Trisha Kruse, Eagle, Idaho
Nutrition Facts:
1 fillet: 232 calories, 10g fat (6g saturated fat), 87mg cholesterol, 477mg sodium, 7g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 28g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 4 lean meat, 2 fat, 1/2 starch.
Fish recipes, especially healthy cod recipes, seem difficult with kids or picky eaters. But rest easy, because this lemon cod is simple, easy and enjoyed by all. We recommend fresh lemon juice for the best flavor.
18/48
Grilled Pineapple Chimichurri Chicken
From the Recipe Creator:
Classic chimichurri gets a Hawaiian twist thanks to pineapple and macadamia nuts. For a spicier version, substitute red serrano pepper for the bell pepper. —Naylet LaRochelle, Miami, Florida
Nutrition Facts:
1 chicken breast half with about 1/4 cup sauce : 428 calories, 24g fat (3g saturated fat), 94mg cholesterol, 686mg sodium, 19g carbohydrate (13g sugars, 2g fiber), 37g protein.
This Latin American-inspired dish uses a sweet and tart twist by adding pineapple to the plate. If you’re looking for a well-marinated chicken dish, this recipe is a must-try!
19/48
Hawaiian Pork Chops
From the Recipe Creator:
Looking for a great last-minute meal when friends drop in? Hampton, Virginia's Michelle Cavalier recommends one of her husband's sweet-and-sour favorites. “This is so easy, tastes just like Hawaiian pizza, and I usually have all ingredients on hand.”
Nutrition Facts:
1 pork chop with 3/4 cup sauce: 250 calories, 7g fat (2g saturated fat), 57mg cholesterol, 554mg sodium, 24g carbohydrate (16g sugars, 1g fiber), 23g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 1/2 starch, 1/2 fruit, 1/2 fat.
Think deconstructed Hawaiian pizza. The pork chops are served on a bed of pineapple and green pepper. It’s sweet, savory and a soon-to-be family favorite.
20/48
Pesto Veggie Pizza
From the Recipe Creator:
My family loves pizza night, but we have rarely ordered takeout since I created this fresh and flavorful version. It is a fast and scrumptious meal that is always a winner in my house. —Kate Selner of Lino Lakes, Minnesota
Nutrition Facts:
1 piece: 310 calories, 15g fat (4g saturated fat), 15mg cholesterol, 707mg sodium, 31g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 2g fiber), 13g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 starch, 2 fat, 1 lean meat, 1 medium-fat meat.
This pizza is so fresh you won’t even think about takeout. With mushrooms, spinach and tomatoes, every bite packs a punch.
21/48
Baked Haddock
From the Recipe Creator:
After testing out a ton of haddock recipes, I've decided that this baked version is the best. The mix of crunchy topping and lemon is just delicious. —Jean Ann Perkins, Newburyport, Maryland
Nutrition Facts:
4 ounces cooked fish: 269 calories, 9g fat (5g saturated fat), 108mg cholesterol, 446mg sodium, 13g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 1g fiber), 32g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 4 lean meat, 2 fat, 1 starch.
This baked haddock is crunchy and buttery—everything you’d want from fish. The lemon and garlic work together as the best flavor combination. It’d go great with any of these healthy side dishes.
22/48
Chicken and Broccoli with Dill Sauce
From the Recipe Creator:
I've had this chicken and broccoli recipe for so many years, I don't remember when I first made it. Serve it with a side of couscous or rice for a complete meal, or add some sliced mushrooms or carrots for extra veggies. —Kallee Krong-Mccreery, Escondido, California
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 274 calories, 9g fat (2g saturated fat), 100mg cholesterol, 620mg sodium, 8g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 2g fiber), 39g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 5 lean meat, 1 vegetable, 1 fat.
This dish is made complete with a side of brown rice or couscous. Make use of the dill from your garden and try out this tasty recipe! You’ll turn the most stubborn broccoli haters on their heads.
23/48
Spinach Quesadillas
From the Recipe Creator:
My family gave these cheesy quesadillas oohs and aahs. Remove the spinach from the heat as soon as it wilts so it keeps a little bit of crunch. —Pam Kaiser, Mansfield, Missouri
Nutrition Facts:
3 wedges: 281 calories, 12g fat (6g saturated fat), 24mg cholesterol, 585mg sodium, 30g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 4g fiber), 14g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 starch, 1 vegetable, 1 medium-fat meat.
Quesadilla night is always the best night. Dipped in sour cream, these cheesy spinach and tomato quesadillas are a dream.
24/48
Peanut Chicken Stir-Fry
From the Recipe Creator:
Here’s a colorful and comforting Thai peanut chicken stir-fry with just a touch of heat from crushed red pepper. If you want even more color, add frozen stir-fry veggies. —Lisa Erickson, Ripon, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/3 cups: 384 calories, 13g fat (2g saturated fat), 42mg cholesterol, 575mg sodium, 45g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 4g fiber), 24g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 starch, 3 lean meat, 2 fat.
This healthy dish is not only pretty to look at, but it also has the perfect flavor profile. It’s a bit sweet from the peanut butter and brown sugar and then packs a bit of heat through the red pepper flakes. You can double the sauce depending on your preference.
25/48
Ginger Salmon with Green Beans
From the Recipe Creator:
I developed this flavor-packed dinner for a busy friend who wants to eat clean. —Nicole Stevens, Austin, Texas
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 357 calories, 15g fat (3g saturated fat), 57mg cholesterol, 607mg sodium, 35g carbohydrate (18g sugars, 8g fiber), 24g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 1 starch, 1 vegetable, 1 fat.
This lemon, garlic and honey salmon is served with green beans. This pairing is great for a quick and light dinner. You’ll come back to the lemon dressing again and again.
26/48
Pork Chops with Nectarine Salsa
From the Recipe Creator:
My special pork dish has so much flavor and is a snap to prepare. A sweet, fruity salsa perfectly balances the spicy rub that coats the pan-fried chops. —Bonnie Bufford, Nicholson, Pennsylvania
Nutrition Facts:
1 pork chop with 1/2 cup salsa: 246 calories, 10g fat (3g saturated fat), 55mg cholesterol, 279mg sodium, 15g carbohydrate (10g sugars, 2g fiber), 23g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 1 fruit.
The sweet, fruity salsa balances the spicy pork rub in this delightful dinner. You can choose either sliced peaches or nectarines for the base.
27/48
Parmesan Tilapia
From the Recipe Creator:
My husband and I are always looking for light fish recipes because of their health benefits. This one's a hit with him, and we've served it at dinner parties too. It's become a staple! —Michelle Martin, Durham, North Carolina
Nutrition Facts:
1 fillet: 179 calories, 4g fat (2g saturated fat), 89mg cholesterol, 191mg sodium, 1g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 35g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 5 very lean meat, 1/2 fat.
This tilapia is a go-to recipe. The old reliable of dinners, if you will. A little spicy, a little cheesy, it really has it all.
28/48
Egg Roll in a Bowl
From the Recipe Creator:
Frying anything at home is a little intimidating for me, but I love egg rolls. With this recipe, I've figured out a way to get the best part of the eggroll—without the mess. If you prefer a traditional egg rolls made with wrappers, you can use this as the filling! —Sue Mitchell, Leakey, Texas
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/4 cups chicken mixture with 3/4 cup rice: 451 calories, 11g fat (3g saturated fat), 81mg cholesterol, 591mg sodium, 58g carbohydrate (13g sugars, 6g fiber), 30g protein.
The best part of takeout is the egg rolls. But when you’re feeling like a home-cooked meal, egg rolls can prove rather tricky to make. This recipe takes the hard part of frying out of the equation, but leaves all of the taste.
29/48
Quinoa and Black Beans
From the Recipe Creator:
Some vegan quinoa recipes are boring, but this one definitely isn't. My daughter’s college asked parents for the best quinoa recipes to use in the dining halls. This healthy quinoa recipe fits the bill. —Lindsay McSweeney, Winchester, Massachusetts
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/4 cups: 375 calories, 10g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 668mg sodium, 60g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 10g fiber), 13g protein.
This is quinoa done right! This black bean and corn dinner can be topped with avocado or cheese. To avoid mushy quinoa, measure your ingredients accurately and avoid excess liquid.
30/48
Beef Lo Mein
From the Recipe Creator:
If you like a good stir-fry, this dish will definitely satisfy. I discovered the recipe at an international luncheon, and it's now a favorite go-to meal. —Denise Patterson, Bainbridge, Ohio
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/3 cups: 358 calories, 10g fat (2g saturated fat), 51mg cholesterol, 681mg sodium, 40g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 4g fiber), 28g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 2 vegetable, 1-1/2 starch, 1 fat.
This stir fry will satisfy all your needs. If you like it saucy, double or even triple the amount of sauce. You can add more vegetables, too, like broccoli or mushrooms.
31/48
Shrimp Curry
From the Recipe Creator:
I created this Indian-style shrimp when we were entertaining some friends, one of our favorite things to do. It works on the stovetop or the grill. —Shana Conradt, Appleton, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
1/2 cup: 147 calories, 5g fat (1g saturated fat), 138mg cholesterol, 293mg sodium, 3g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 1g fiber), 21g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 1/2 fat.
Curry powder and Greek yogurt are the stars of this Indian-inspired curry shrimp. This is a nice change of pace from classic shrimp recipes that hopefully acts as the catalyst to trying more Indian dinners.
32/48
Bean Burritos
From the Recipe Creator:
I always have the ingredients for this cheesy burrito recipe on hand. Cooking the rice and shredding the cheese the night before saves precious minutes at dinnertime. —Beth Osborne Skinner, Bristol, Tennessee
Nutrition Facts:
2 burritos: 216 calories, 9g fat (4g saturated fat), 23mg cholesterol, 544mg sodium, 24g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 3g fiber), 9g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1-1/2 starch, 1 lean meat, 1 fat.
Cheesy bean burritos are the ultimate comfort food. The six-ingredient dinner is great for a busy weekday or when you want to take a load off.
33/48
Chicken with Spinach and Mushrooms
From the Recipe Creator:
Chicken breasts stay nice and moist tucked under a blanket of melted cheese. It's extra special to serve but is not tricky to make. —Katrina Wagner, Grain Valley, Missouri
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 203 calories, 9g fat (2g saturated fat), 68mg cholesterol, 210mg sodium, 3g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 2g fiber), 27g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 1 vegetable, 1 fat.
When a recipe has “smothered” in the title, you know that it’s going to be a good one. The chicken sits under a layer of melted cheese in a dish that comes together quickly for a nice family dinner.
34/48
Honey-Garlic Pork Chops
From the Recipe Creator:
The sauce on these honey garlic pork chops is so good, I sometimes double it so there's extra for dipping whatever veggie we have on the side. —Michelle Smith, Eldersburg, Maryland
Nutrition Facts:
1 pork chop with 2 tablespoons sauce: 249 calories, 7g fat (3g saturated fat), 74mg cholesterol, 342mg sodium, 19g carbohydrate (18g sugars, 0 fiber), 27g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 4 lean meat, 1 starch.
You’re going to want to make extra honey-garlic sauce for dipping! This five-ingredient dish can be served with green beans or rice pilaf.
35/48
Chicken, Rice and Beans
From the Recipe Creator:
This spicy family favorite calls for just a few basic ingredients, including chicken, black beans and rice, so it’s quick and easy to stir up in your skillet on a weeknight. —Molly Newman, Portland, Oregon
Nutrition Facts:
1 chicken breast half with 3/4 cup bean mixture and 1/2 cup cooked rice: 400 calories, 7g fat (1g saturated fat), 63mg cholesterol, 670mg sodium, 52g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 8g fiber), 32g protein.
You’ll wonder why you haven’t made this healthy dinner already. This spicy dish can be served with tortilla chips or a guacamole salad. It can even be stored in the refrigerator for up to four days.
36/48
Pizza Pasta
From the Recipe Creator:
On busy days, it's a comfort to know that my family can sit down to dinner minutes after we walk in the door. Double it to wow at a potluck. This recipe works in a slow cooker, too. —Virginia Krites, Cridersville, Ohio
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 495 calories, 25g fat (9g saturated fat), 74mg cholesterol, 1056mg sodium, 37g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 3g fiber), 30g protein.
The title really says it all! This meal is put together in a flash, and if you double the recipe, you can impress your friends at any potluck.
37/48
Naked Fish Tacos
From the Recipe Creator:
This is one of my husband's all-time favorite meals. I've even converted some friends to fish after they've eaten this. I serve the dish with fresh melon when it's in season to balance the subtle heat of the cabbage mixture. —Elizabeth Bramkamp, Gig Harbor, Washington
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 293 calories, 16g fat (2g saturated fat), 83mg cholesterol, 663mg sodium, 6g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 3g fiber), 33g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 5 lean meat, 3 fat, 1 vegetable.
These naked fish tacos bring forth the joys of eating fish tacos without any of the mess. This tortilla-less meal can be served with rice or corn if you want it to be a little more filling.
38/48
Crab-Stuffed Avocado
From the Recipe Creator:
These boats are wonderful with tortilla chips, beans or rice. You can also cover them, pack them on ice, and take them to a picnic or potluck. Straight from the oven or cold, they're always delicious. —Frances Benthin, Scio, Oregon
Nutrition Facts:
1 filled avocado half: 325 calories, 28g fat (6g saturated fat), 57mg cholesterol, 427mg sodium, 8g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 6g fiber), 13g protein.
These boats are wonderful with tortilla chips, beans or rice. They’d make an excellent addition to any picnic or potluck too. You can even try these with shrimp instead of crab.
39/48
Shrimp with Warm German-Style Coleslaw
From the Recipe Creator:
We love anything that is tangy or has bacon. With fennel and tarragon, this is a super savory dish. I use the medley from Minute Rice if I don't have time to make my own. —Ann Sheehy, Lawrence, Massachusetts
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 472 calories, 20g fat (5g saturated fat), 156mg cholesterol, 546mg sodium, 44g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 3g fiber), 28g protein.
With fennel and tarragon, this is a savory and tangy dish. Normally, shrimp and coleslaw isn’t the first combination you’d think of, but the pairing resembles that of a deconstructed shrimp taco. You can even use chicken in place of shrimp.
40/48
Skillet Beef Tamales
From the Recipe Creator:
I found something similar to this years ago and have recently added my own spin. Here’s the outcome: an easy, cheesy meal your family can't get enough of. We don't have to tell them it's healthy. —Deborah Williams, Peoria, Arizona
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup meat mixture with 1 tablespoon sour cream: 329 calories, 11g fat (5g saturated fat), 59mg cholesterol, 679mg sodium, 28g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 6g fiber), 25g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 1-1/2 starch, 1 vegetable, 1/2 fat.
Your kids will love this easy and cheesy dinner. You can even freeze the cooked meat to save yourself a little time in the future. Also, try this cowboy chicken that has the spicy, smoky flavors of the Old West. It’s a quick, one-skillet dinner for ranchers—or a hungry family.
41/48
Tilapia Florentine
From the Recipe Creator:
Looking for a way to get a little more heart-healthy fish into your family's weekly diet? You'll win them over hook, line and sinker with this quick and easy entree. Topped with fresh spinach and a splash of lemon, it's sure to become a favorite! Melanie Bachman - Ulysses, Pennsylvania
Nutrition Facts:
1 fillet with 1/3 cup spinach mixture: 249 calories, 13g fat (4g saturated fat), 122mg cholesterol, 307mg sodium, 4g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 1g fiber), 29g protein.
You’ve heard of chicken florentine, but get ready for tilapia florentine! This simple and healthy dish uses spinach and ricotta cheese. You can use any whitefish for this recipe and really make it your own.
42/48
Chicken Tacos
From the Recipe Creator:
A few people in my family have special dietary needs, but luckily, these chicken tacos work for all of us. I toss up a simple green salad and have a meal we can all enjoy together. —Christine Schenher, Exeter, California
Nutrition Facts:
2 tacos: 354 calories, 15g fat (3g saturated fat), 63mg cholesterol, 474mg sodium, 30g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 6g fiber), 27g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 2 starch, 1 fat.
You’ll love this avocado and tomato salsa. The chicken is seasoned generously, with a bit of heat coming from the chili powder and paprika. This helps the salsa shine even more.
43/48
Chicken Marsala
From the Recipe Creator:
This is one of my favorite dishes to order in restaurants, so I created a version that I could make in a flash on a weeknight at home. —Trisha Kruse, Eagle, Idaho
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 493 calories, 11g fat (2g saturated fat), 78mg cholesterol, 279mg sodium, 50g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 7g fiber), 40g protein.
44/48
Curry Shrimp Linguine
From the Recipe Creator:
Curry, cilantro and coconut milk make this dish an exciting change of pace. It's also good with Thai rice noodles or spaghetti. —Jana Rippee, Casa Grande, Arizona
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/2 cups: 406 calories, 8g fat (4g saturated fat), 115mg cholesterol, 313mg sodium, 58g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 3g fiber), 26g protein.
45/48
Easy Crab Cakes
From the Recipe Creator:
Ready-to-go crabmeat makes these delicate patties easier than other crab cake recipes. You can also form the crab mixture into four thick patties instead of eight crab cakes. —Charlene Spelock, Apollo, Pennsylvania
Nutrition Facts:
2 crab cakes: 239 calories, 11g fat (3g saturated fat), 141mg cholesterol, 657mg sodium, 13g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 1g fiber), 21g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 2 fat, 1 starch.
Ready-to-go crabmeat makes these delicate patties easier than other crab cake recipes. You can use a little extra mayo to make them more moist, but these delicious crab cakes really hold their own.
46/48
Southwestern Pineapple Pork Chops
From the Recipe Creator:
This quick entree will instantly transport you to the Southwest. Salsa plays lively counterpoint to the juicy pineapple-sweetened pork chops. —Lisa Varner, El Paso, Texas
Nutrition Facts:
1 pork chop with 1/3 cup sauce: 274 calories, 12g fat (3g saturated fat), 68mg cholesterol, 315mg sodium, 13g carbohydrate (9g sugars, 0 fiber), 27g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 4 lean meat, 1 fat, 1/2 fruit.
These saucy and citrusy pork chops will elevate your dinner rotation. And the best part? They’re only five ingredients.
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Lemon-Parsley Tilapia
From the Recipe Creator:
I like to include seafood in our weekly dinner rotation but don't want to bother with anything complicated (and it had better taste good or the family will riot). This herbed fish does the trick. —Trisha Kruse, Eagle, Idaho
Nutrition Facts:
1 fillet: 124 calories, 4g fat (2g saturated fat), 63mg cholesterol, 359mg sodium, 1g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 21g protein. Diabetic exchanges: 3 lean meat, 1 fat.
A lemony fish is always a recipe for success. The parsley gives it a pop of color.
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Tortilla Pie
From the Recipe Creator:
My husband and I enjoy this southwestern take on lasagna because it’s not as dense or heavy as traditional layered dishes made with pasta. Our two daughters enjoy the mild flavor. —Lisa King, Caledonia, Michigan
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 356 calories, 14g fat (6g saturated fat), 65mg cholesterol, 574mg sodium, 32g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 5g fiber), 25g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 medium-fat meat, 2 starch.
This lasagna-inspired recipe is not as heavy as the traditional version due to the lack of noodles. You can use ground turkey or a leaner ground beef if you want to customize it a little more.
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